Analysis of the State of the External Lightning Protection System for Operating Energy Objects

Abstract

Introduction. Within the framework of European integration of Ukraine, the international Standard IEC 62305 has been harmonized, which provides for a full inspection of lightning protection devices with a frequency of 0.5-4 years, which significantly increases the volume of work. Problem. The adopted Standard is stricter than those for which external lightning protection systems (LPS) of power plants and substations, which are objects of critical infrastructure, have been designed. There is no clear algorithm of actions to bring the existing LPS of existing energy facilities of Ukraine in accordance with the requirements of IEC 62305. Due to the need to modernize the existing LPS facilities, there is a need to develop a single algorithm for these works. Goal. Development of an algorithm for evaluation of the current state LPS for existing power plants and substations. Methodology. Based on the analysis of IEC 62305, three stages of evaluation are proposed: experimental (based on geodetic and electromagnetic method of determining the configuration of the object and components of LPS), calculation (based on the topographic survey method and the electromagnetic method for determining the configuration of the object and components of the LPS) and stage of analysis and development of recommendations. Results. Three stages, which are a basis of analysis of a condition of LPS based on the created algorithm, are considered in detail. An example of the analysis LPS condition of the existing substation with a voltage of 35 kV, created according to the specified method, is given. The program report in 3D form illustrates the unprotected parts of the object. Originality. For the first time, an algorithm for analysis the state of LPS of operating energy facilities according to the IEC 62305 standard has been developed. Practical value. Typical remarks to the existing LPS are formed. The results of the work can be used to inspection and modernize the LPS energy facilities, as well as buildings and structures of public importance. References 18, tables 1, figures 3.

Determination of the electric field strength of high-voltage substations

“…Figure 4 shows fragments of 2D and 3D models of an operating distribution device of the 110/6 kV voltage class of a substation of one of the regional energy companies in the east of Ukraine. The substation plan, heights and geometric parameters of the busbar, which were determined during the diagnosis of the lightning protection system according to the method [14], were used as initial data. The voltage class of each bus system and phasing, set in the parameters of each electrode (busbar) separately, were also taken into account.…”

Determination of the probability of a lightning strike in the elements of the object taking into account the statistical distribution of the current value

“…It is clear that class I requires the highest level of protection, so the radius of the sphere is defined as the smallest (equal to 20 m). Examples of the application of this approach are presented in [6][7][8][9][10][11]. It is noted that the calculated zones differ from the zones determined by the protective angle method.…”